We have seen in recent times Microsoft increasingly push its news output towards AI. This is a part of a new push in Microsoft News. According to Microsoft, the shift to AI will help the platform deliver more unbiased news. MSN is powered by Microsoft News and recently Microsoft cut dozens of jobs from the editorial teams. Perhaps it’s a sign of the times, but the company would now prefer articles are curated by artificial intelligence. In June, Microsoft cut 50 editorial staff members from MSN.com. The latest report suggests the company is now laying off more employees. However, the exact number is unknown, but sources claim these are full-time editorial members and some senior positions. It is worth noting Microsoft has not confirmed the layoffs and offered GeekWire a no comment on the situation.
AI Mishap
Back in June, Microsoft News’ push towards AI suffered an early embarrassment. Microsoft News AI was criticized for mixing up the mixed-race members of the British pop group Little Mix. The AI editor failed to tell the difference between two mixed race members of the pop group Little Mix. Microsoft News AI published a story that was about Little Mix member Jade Thirlwall’s problems facing racism. However, the published story had a photo of fellow Little Mix band mate Leigh-Anne Pinnock. Thirlwall noticed the mistake and complained on Twitter.
